A matter of party numbers

THE numbers game has started and with just 15 days to the general election, competition within political parties will increase as candidates do their best to market their numbers.

The People's Democratic Party believes the competition between candidates will contribute to the total number of votes for the party.

PDP president Lynda Tabuya said their campaign strategy was simple - reach as many people as possible.

"Every candidate is responsible for their campaign in their designated area. Therefore, the candidate will go back to their supporters and market their numbers," Ms Tabuya said.

"The party is not marketing any one particular number. We are promoting equality within our party so that every candidate has a shot. Every candidate is responsible to market their own number, from our leader to the last candidate."

Ms Tabuya said some parties promoted their popular candidates with the hope they get enough votes to pull other candidates into Parliament.

"Yes, it is a popularity contest. This is why PDP's selection criteria included proven community work, because with those candidates comes a following already on the ground and support," she said.